Elmer David Mai, 84 of Russell died Wednesday evening, November 5, 2008 at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.  Elmer was born January 24, 1924 on the family farm southwest of Russell.  He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in 1942. 

Elmer served his country in the United States Navy during WWII.  He was deployed on a LST 667 in the South Pacific.  After the war he returned to Russell. 

He was united in marriage to Lorraine Bender on February 16, 1947 in St. Johns Lutheran Church in Russell.  This union was blessed with two sons, Stephen and Gordon. 

Elmer was a farmer and stockman most of his life.  He also worked during the late 60’s and early 70’s as a welder for Charlie Bishop and during the 70’s he worked for Shannon Appliance Store.  He also completed an electronics course through the mail and then repaired radios and televisions. 

Elmer is a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church of Russell and was active in the church choir for over 30 years.  He was a life member Hospice Dinnerand past commander of the Russell American Legion Post #99, a life member of the Russell V.F.W. Post #6240, the Russell County Saddle Club and was a project leader in 4-H.  Elmer was an inventive guy who could fix anything.  He enjoyed working with wood and playing with his remote controlled airplanes. 

His surviving family include his wife of 61 years, Lorraine of the home; son Gordon Mai of Wilson, Kansas; sister, Rozille Martin of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and three nieces.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son Stephen, brother Bernard Mai and one niece and nephew.